Here, we speak of commerce in its larger meaning - commerce as not only dealings in goods but all dealings or interactions among individuals. Interactions with individuals include interactions between a husband and wife, among family members, among neighbors and friends or among any members of society members  and with all creatures -- small or large. Commerce also includes interactions with Nature and its five basic elements of space, air, fire, water and earth, with the universe and with everything that is included in the past, present and future times.

Honest dealings with such a vast conglomerate can only be executed on the basis of sacrifice for others. This human life is for sacrifice in exchange for true freedom and Eternal Love; this is the goal of every human being according to Sanatan (Hindu) Dharma. Morality is another word for self sacrifice. We should sacrifice just as a mother sacrifices for the delivery of a baby. All the pain a mother suffers is for the joy of a beautiful gift of God, a gift of Love.

Only when all religions clearly recognize such a fundamental definitions of commerce and morality will there be true brotherhood or life of joy. Morality should not be conveniently interpreted to suit local conditions or whims of religious, business or political persons in charge. One of the major problems in the world is that we have one set of rules for us to follow and another set of rules for others. This is hypocrisy as per Gitaji (3:6).

Without basic, general and specific morality (Yama and Niyama), no progress of any kind can be made in religious or spiritual life. This also applies in our daily dealings of the smallest order. Religion or spirituality that cannot be applied to daily life for the benefit of an individual and thus, of all people, is no religion. It is only a belief, superstition, gimmick or an adulterated business. This is usually the case in modern times. 

Sanatan Dharma specifies for all the people of all times and places what minimum morality consists of: Fortitude, forgiveness, self control, abstention from unlawful gain, purity of body and mind, sense control, knowledge of pure scriptures, meditation on the Supreme Being (not on perishables), truthfulness, freedom from anger. These constitute the tenfold path of virtues that is the true foundation of morality.

Not observing or stressing the above to the fullest is ignorance, arrogance and nothing but vanity. Such a life or religion has no meaning. Our real good lies in heeding to this advice of sages of all times. In the absence of dependable human guidance we may well learn the message of Shreemad Bhagvad Gita and practice it to the best of our ability -- leaving its results up to the Lord.

--Swami Radhanandaji